How can we avoid "foolish controversies" in our daily Christian walk? The Call to Avoid Foolish Controversies Titus 3:9 reminds us, “But avoid foolish controversies, genealogies, arguments, and quarrels about the law, because these things are pointless and worthless.” Scripture is clear: some debates sap our time, poison our fellowship, and distract us from Christ’s mission. Why “Foolish Controversies” Are Dangerous • They waste time that could be spent serving, praying, or sharing the gospel (Ephesians 5:15-16). • They stir up pride, anger, and division (Proverbs 13:10). • They shift focus from sound doctrine to speculative theories (1 Timothy 1:4). • They damage our witness to unbelievers (John 13:35). Recognizing a Foolish Controversy Ask: • Does this discussion clearly build up faith, hope, or love? • Is the topic rooted in clear biblical teaching or in speculation? • Will it edify listeners, or simply parade knowledge (1 Corinthians 8:1)? If the answer is “no” to the first two and “yes” to the last, move on. Practical Steps to Steer Clear 1. Anchor your mind in sound doctrine • Daily Bible study keeps truth fresh and errors obvious (Acts 17:11). 2. Guard your words • “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up” (Ephesians 4:29). 3. Cultivate humility • “Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love” (Ephesians 4:2). 4. Choose profitable conversations • Redirect talk toward Christ’s person, work, and commands (Colossians 3:1-2). 5. Set firm boundaries • If a brother persists in divisive talk, “warn him once, and then a second time” (Titus 3:10-11). 6. Pray for discernment • Ask for “the wisdom from above … peaceable, gentle, open to reason” (James 3:17). Responding When Drawn In • Listen briefly, showing respect (Proverbs 18:13). • Gently pivot: “I’m not sure this debate helps us love Christ more—can we focus on what the text clearly says?” • If tension rises, graciously withdraw (2 Timothy 2:23-24). Keeping the Main Thing the Main Thing • The gospel unites (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). • Love is the “more excellent way” (1 Corinthians 13:1-13). • Good works confirm our testimony (Titus 3:8). Staying anchored in Scripture, pursuing love, and guarding our tongues will keep us free from fruitless disputes and focused on Christ’s kingdom. |
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